The Perfect Caribbean Getaway: A Day Trip to Las Cuevas Beach from Port of Spain

When we think of Trinidad, we often picture vibrant festivals, lively music, and colorful culture. But there’s a quieter side of the island that’s just as captivating — its unspoiled beaches and lush landscapes. This day trip from Port of Spain to Las Cuevas Beach offers a chance to experience the authentic Caribbean without the crowds and high-rise hotels. For $70 per person, in about five hours, you’ll get a taste of Trinidad’s natural beauty, local flavors, and stunning coastal views.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines sightseeing with genuine relaxation — starting with a scenic drive along the North Coast Road and stopping at Maracas Lookout for sweeping panoramic photos, then winding down at Las Cuevas Beach, a true hidden gem. The second highlight? The guides, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, make the experience memorable.

One consideration? The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so you’ll want to budget extra for local snacks, which are well worth trying. This trip is ideally suited for travelers who want more than just beach lounging — it’s perfect for those curious about local culture, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape.

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Visit a pristine, Blue Flag-certified beach untouched by high-rise development.
Scenic Drive: Enjoy a picturesque ride along the North Coast Road and snap photos at Maracas Lookout.
Local Flavors: Sample regional snacks like bake and shark or pineapple chutney at your own expense.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Khaleel and Marvin receive high praise for their friendliness and insights.
Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup/drop-off included, making logistics easy.
Relaxation & Views: Plenty of time to swim, float, or simply soak in the lush mountain scenery.

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Day Trip to Maracas Beach

An Honest Look at the Day Trip to Las Cuevas Beach

Starting Point: Convenience and Comfort with Hotel Pickup

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup included, which is a real plus considering how tricky it can be to coordinate transport in unfamiliar territories. The small group size (up to 100 travelers, but often more intimate) means you’ll probably enjoy a more personalized experience. Your guide, such as Khaleel or Marvin, will be your friendly host, sharing stories and tips along the way.

Maracas Lookout and Maracas Beach

First stop: Maracas Lookout. This is where you get the classic postcard shot of the bays and surrounding hills. The view of the Paramin hills — dotted with herb and spice plantations — is worth the short stop. Here, locals often set up stalls with snacks, giving you a taste of Trinidad’s delicious street food. You might hear some impromptu calypso tunes, adding a lively Caribbean vibe.

Next, it’s down to Maracas Beach, the most popular spot on the island. Lined with coconut trees, this beach offers inviting, calm waters, perfect for a quick swim or just floating around. One of the tour’s highlights is trying the famous Bake and Shark — a local specialty consisting of fried shark fillet in a bun with toppings, which travelers consistently rave about.

Las Cuevas Beach: The Hidden Treasure

The real star of this trip is Las Cuevas Beach — a mile-long stretch of pristine sand surrounded by rainforest-covered mountains. Unlike the more developed beaches on other islands, Las Cuevas remains largely untouched, making it a true sanctuary for those looking to relax in peace.

With two and a half hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the calm, clear waters, go for a swim, or just kick back on the sand enjoying the mountain views. Many travelers appreciate the serenity — reviews mention how “peaceful and beautiful” it is, with some describing it as a “picture-perfect” spot. It’s ideal for travelers who want a genuine beach experience, away from the hustle and bustle.

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Facilities and Extras

Basic changing and bathroom facilities are available, and lifeguards are on duty most of the time, adding peace of mind. Bottled water is provided, but you’d be wise to bring your own snacks and drinks if you want to avoid extra expenses.

What the Tour Doesn’t Include

Food and drinks are not included, so plan ahead if you’re hungry or want to try more local delicacies. The tour emphasizes the scenic and relaxed aspects, rather than gourmet dining.

Authenticity, Value, and Overall Experience

This tour scores highly across reviews — with a 5.0 rating based on 15 reviews — thanks to the friendly guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to see a side of Trinidad many travelers miss. As one reviewer put it, the guide Mark “personalized our tour” and took us to “beautiful spots to take pictures,” making it clear that the guides genuinely care about giving a memorable experience.

The value for money is apparent, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the opportunity to visit two very different beaches and scenic overlooks in one morning. The tour strikes a good balance between guided sightseeing and free time, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers alike.

The Strengths

Personalized tours with knowledgeable guides
Unspoiled beaches and scenic views
Easy logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off
Authentic local experiences at the lookout and beach spots
Good value for a half-day escape into nature

Possible Drawbacks

No included food or drinks — so extra planning is advised
Limited time at Las Cuevas — if you crave a full day at the beach, this might feel brief
Weather dependence: Like all outdoor activities, the experience can be impacted by rain or strong sun

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love scenic drives, peaceful beaches, and authentic local flavors without the crowds, this trip is a winner. It’s especially suited for those wanting to escape the more tourist-heavy spots and experience Trinidad’s natural beauty firsthand. Families with kids, couples, or solo travelers will all find value here, thanks to the relaxed pace and friendly guides.

It’s ideal if your time is limited but you want to pack in some classic Caribbean sights and relax on a stunning, less-traveled beach. If you’re looking for a quick, authentic, and scenic escape, this tour offers a well-rounded slice of Trinidad.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making travel logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What beaches will I visit?
You’ll visit Maracas Beach, famous for its coconut trees and local snacks, and Las Cuevas Beach, a pristine, tranquil stretch of sand surrounded by rainforest.

Can I swim at Las Cuevas Beach?
Yes, the waters are calm and perfect for swimming or floating around. The beach is also equipped with basic facilities and lifeguards.

Are food and drinks included?
No, snacks and meals are not included, so you might want to bring some in or plan to buy local snacks during the stops.

How are the guides?
Guides like Khaleel and Marvin are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness, making the trip informative and enjoyable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers find the relaxed pace and scenic stops suitable for family outings.

Final Thoughts

This Day Trip to Las Cuevas Beach from Port of Spain offers a rich blend of Trinidad’s scenic beauty, local flavor, and tranquil beaches. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting to see the island’s less-commercialized side at a reasonable price and with minimal hassle. The guides, stunning views, and authentic experiences make it a trip that many travelers continue to recommend.

Whether you’re after picture-perfect landscapes, a peaceful spot to unwind, or a taste of local snacks, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those with limited time who want a curated, authentic taste of Trinidad’s natural charm — a small group, big on memorable moments.